Will is a 39 year old man with cognitive disability that creates some communication and some physical co-ordination issues. You provide home care for him and follow the requirements outlined in his individualised plan.
With prompts and guidance Will can complete many personal care practices himself, but you provide basic assistance with undressing, dressing and grooming and you oversee his bathing. He prefers to take a bath rather than a shower. He enjoys listening to the radio while in the bath. He prefers you to trim his beard, which he likes to keep neat.
He is capable of communicating effectively, although slowly, and he often has difficulty processing his thoughts.
He has Meals on Wheels delivered at lunchtime, 3 times a week. On the other week days his sister will call in to make him a sandwich for lunch. He has fresh groceries delivered to his unit and pre-prepared meals that he can heat up for dinner at weekends. You assist him with putting the delivered foods away and storing them correctly. You also assist with the next fortnight’s order.
Will’s mobility must be monitored as it can fluctuate depending on his mood and general well-being. He has a walking frame he can use if he feels it is necessary. Sometimes you have to provide support for him to get out of bed in the morning. You often discuss Will’s on-going needs with him and his family.
How will you, as a support worker in Australia, ensure that Will’s rights are protected and he has opportunities to make decisions for himself and take reasonable risks?